A nurse is teaching a client who has a new colostomy about how to control odors and flatus.
Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Choice D rationale

The telephone number is considered a reliable client identifier because it is unique to the individual and typically part of their personal health record. Using multiple identifiers, such as the telephone number in conjunction with the client's name and date of birth, is a critical safety measure to prevent medication errors and ensure the right medication is administered to the right client. This process, known as the "two-identifier rule," is a cornerstone of client safety protocols and aligns with guidelines from organizations like The Joint Commission

Choice A rationale

Obtaining a client's vital signs is a routine, non-invasive procedure that can be safely delegated to an assistive personnel (AP). The AP is trained to measure and record objective data such as temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure. The nurse is responsible for interpreting the data and assessing for any abnormal findings, but the data collection itself falls within the scope of practice for an AP. This allows the nurse to focus on more complex tasks.

Choice B rationale

Recording a client's intake after each meal is a task focused on data collection and falls within the scope of practice for an assistive personnel (AP). The AP can accurately measure and document the quantity of food and fluids consumed by the client. The nurse is then responsible for analyzing this data to monitor the client's nutritional status and fluid balance, and to identify any potential complications, such as dehydration or malnutrition. This is a routine, non-complex task.

Choice C rationale

Transferring a client is a routine activity of daily living that an assistive personnel (AP) is trained to perform. It involves moving a client safely from one location to another, such as from the bed to a chair or to physical therapy. The AP is taught proper body mechanics and client transfer techniques to prevent injury to both the client and themselves. The nurse would provide supervision and assess the client's mobility status before the transfer.

Choice D rationale

Inserting an NG tube is an invasive procedure that requires advanced knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and sterile technique. It carries a risk of complications, such as aspiration or incorrect tube placement. Therefore, this task is outside the scope of practice for an assistive personnel and must be performed by a licensed nurse or other qualified healthcare professional. The nurse is responsible for confirming tube placement and monitoring for adverse effects.

Choice E rationale

Instructing a client on the use of an incentive spirometer involves client education, which is a key component of the nursing process. The nurse must assess the client's learning needs, provide accurate and safe instructions, and evaluate the client's understanding and ability to perform the technique correctly. This cognitive and educational task requires the critical thinking skills of a licensed nurse and cannot be delegated to an assistive personnel. *.